The much-loved and esteemed Wind in the Willows will be gracing the Sherman Theatre’s Main House this Christmas, combining beautiful sets and scenery, a vibrant atmosphere and a charming spirit with live music and oodles of laughter to share Kenneth Graeme’s renowned and timeless story of Mole, Rat, Badger and Toad in a truly special way. As per the ageless novel, once again Mole finds himself exploring the world beyond his home for the very first time, whilst Rat just wants to enjoy himself in his boat. Poor Toad constantly lands himself in bother and wise old Badger does his best to keep his friends safe and under control in this definitive fable. Over a hundred years after their first appearance in 1908, these characters remain as emblematic of folly, friendship and misadventure as they ever were. At its core it is a tale of nostalgia, awe and wanderlust, as it combines the animal cunning and anthropomorphic comradery of its protagonists in this classic fable of the bond between chums and the allure of being at home. It’s a story that continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of people, just as much as it did when they grew up reading of the escapades of these colourful characters. This rendition, adapted by Mike Kenny and directed by Lee Lyford, stars The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama alumni Dominic Rye and Jessica Murrain, as well as Casualty and My Family favourite (and Buzz film writer!) Kieron Self. One of classic literature’s most celebrated pieces is becoming one of Cardiff’s essential seasonal treats for all the family to delight in. This everlasting tale promises to be an uplifting, sentimental showcase to bring in or see out the festivities. Regular specialist performances are being held throughout the show’s run for schoolchildren, dementia patients, captioned performances for the hard-of-hearing and audio description for the partially-sighted, to ensure that this story remains as timeless and family-friendly in 2017 as it did when it was first published over a hundred years ago.
Sherman Theatre, Cardiff. Tues 5th Dec – Sat 20th Dec. Admission: £16-£26. Info: 029 2064 6900 / http://www.shermantheatre.co.uk
words RACHAEL HUTCHINGS